Astrantia major ‘Sparking Stars Pink’

Description

Astrantia major ‘Sparkling Stars Pink’ is a clump-forming perennial prized for its deeply lobed dark green leaves and striking two-tone pink flowers. To achieve vibrant blooms throughout summer, follow this detailed planting and care guide.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Astrantia major ‘Sparkling Stars Pink’ in spring when the soil begins to warm. This gives the roots ample time to establish before the growing season.
• Autumn: Alternatively, planting in early autumn allows the plant to settle and prepare for robust growth in the following spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Astrantia major ‘Sparkling Stars Pink’ thrives best in conditions where it receives dappled sunlight or morning sun with some afternoon shade.
• Soil: Opt for moist, fertile, and well-drained soil. Astrantia prefers consistent moisture levels, so incorporating organic matter such as compost helps retain moisture while improving soil fertility.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Soil: Enrich the planting site with organic compost or well-rotted manure to provide essential nutrients.
2. Digging the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. This ensures space for the roots to spread effectively.
3. Planting: Position the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown sits at soil level. Backfill gently, firming the soil around the roots.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and encourage root establishment.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during dry spells. Astrantia thrives in well-watered conditions but avoid waterlogging.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering during dormancy, only providing moisture if the soil becomes very dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring to promote vigorous growth and enhance blooming potential.
• Summer: A mid-season feeding can help prolong flowering and maintain the vibrancy of Astrantia major ‘Sparkling Stars Pink’.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage continued flowering and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Cutback: After the flowering season, cut back the plant to the base to prepare it for winter dormancy and promote healthy regrowth.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your Astrantia in spring to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: Mulching during winter protects the roots from freezing temperatures and helps prevent frost heaving.

Supporting the Plant

Astrantia major ‘Sparkling Stars Pink’ has sturdy stems and typically doesn’t require staking. However, in areas with strong winds or heavy rain, light staking may be beneficial to prevent damage.

Final Tips

Astrantia major ‘Sparkling Stars Pink’ is a low-maintenance, hardy perennial that rewards gardeners with beautiful, long-lasting pink blooms throughout summer. By planting it in a sunny or partially shaded spot with moist soil and following this care routine, you’ll enjoy stunning flowers that bring charm and elegance to your garden. Use Astrantia major ‘Sparkling Stars Pink’ to create a vibrant focal point in borders, containers, or cottage-style planting schemes.